2014 Paris Motor Show: Lamborghini Unwraps Its First Plug-In Hybrid

PARIS — Lamborghini unveiled its Asterion LPI 910-4 concept, the automaker’s first plug-in hybrid, here Wednesday at a sneak preview before the official press days of the 2014 Paris Motor Show.

The 910 in its nomenclature refers to the total horsepower output from the combination of its 5.2-liter V10 engine and three electric motors. The number 4 alludes to the fact it is all-wheel-drive. The LPI is an Italian acronym signifying the rearward location of its engine.

While the Asterion name, taken from Greek mythology, seems to deviate from the brand’s custom of naming its cars after fighting bulls, Stephan Winkelmann, Lamborghini’s chief executive, was quick to point out a legitimate connection.

“Asterion is the proper name of the Minotaur, which itself was a hybrid character; half man, half bull,” he said.

The Asterion is capable, when using its full power, of three-second zero-to-62-m.p.h. launches, and a top speed of nearly 200 m.p.h., Lamborghini said. It can also travel about 30 miles in all-electric mode.

Although the car’s vital statistics were emphasized at the car’s introduction, its mold-breaking design may be sending an equally significant signal, too. From a styling standpoint, Mr. Winkelmann said, “Asterion touches new boundaries, with an innovative and unexpected design language which explores curves and sensuality, smooth transitions from panel to panel and few sharp edges.”

All other recent Lamborghinis have evoked the sharp lines and folds of origami.

What about production plans? “It could be produced today,” Mr. Winkelmann said. But it is, for now, a “technology demonstrator” of what Lamborghini could produce entirely in-house from existing components.

What is certain is that Lamborghini is interested in building machines that use less fuel, emit fewer grams of carbon monoxide, and increase performance beyond the capabilities of its current line of vehicles, which are equipped only with conventional gasoline engines.

During an eerily quiet demonstration of its all-electric capability, Mr. Winkelmann wondered aloud, “Can performance also be silent?”